Dual height workstation configuration

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

0001This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/470,465 which was filed on May 14, 2012 which was a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/466,746 which was filed on May 15, 2009, both of which have the same title as this application.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

0002Not applicable.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0003The present invention relates to workstations generally and more specifically to a two sided workstation that includes different level work surfaces to accommodate both sitting and standing workstation users.

0004A workstation usually includes a support structure, at least one horizontal work surface supported by the support structure and one or more computers including processors, display screens and data entry devices such as keyboards, a mouse, etc. Some workstations are used in many different ways by several different users at different times and, in some cases, simultaneously. For instance, in the case of a nurse station located in a medical facility, workstations have been routinely used for many different purposes. For example, some medical facilities operate twenty-four hours a day and seven days a week and are used by three or more shifts of nurses and doctors during the course of a typical day. In these cases, a station may simultaneously generally serve the needs of several nurses and doctors in a facility as well as serve as a reception station for patients and/or visitors arriving at an area of the facility.

0005In the past, nurses and administrators using a station have often been assigned different general tasks. For instance, some administrative nurses have been primarily responsible for entering data into databases using a computer, maintaining a schedule of resource use within an associated area of a facility, greeting patients within an area of a facility etc., while other patient attending nurses have been primarily responsible for tending to patients within an associated area of the facility.

0006In the past, patient attending nurses have typically used paper reporting tools for tracking/recording patient care activities while administrative nurses have routinely used computers to perform their tasks (e.g., data entry including entering data recorded by the patient attending nurses, scheduling, etc.). In these cases, patient attending nurses typically have only stopped at a nurse station for short periods to obtain information required to complete their duties associated with tending to patients and providing information to the administrative nurses while administrative nurses have generally spent a relatively greater portion of their time at the nurse station to complete their assigned tasks.

0007To support both administrative and patient attending nurses as well as serve as a reception area for patients/visitors, nurse stations have usually included a relatively large work surface at a height suitable for use by a sitting nurse and a relatively small horizontal surface at a height suitable for use by a standing nurse or a patient/visitor. Here, the station typically included one or more computers with displays located for use by administrative nurses and the smaller, standing height surface was generally for use by the patient attending nurses. Because the patient attending nurses and patients/visitors performed only few tasks at the station, the smaller standing height surface was always considered adequate to meet their periodic and minimal needs. Because some nurses where tasked with stationary tasks and others with ambulatory tasks, the stations often included complete surrounding structure to, in effect, close off the space used by the administrative nurses and operate as a barrier to easy access. The surrounding configuration was also seen as advantageous as it restricted access by patients or other facility visitors to locations where sensitive patient information was accessible/viewable (e.g., via a display).

0008In these cases, the side of the station on which patients/visitors approached was usually finished in a particularly aesthetically appealing manner while the side on which the administrators were seated had a design dictated more by function than form. Computer housings, network routers and other electronic equipment was usually stored under the large sitting height work surface in a location accessible from adjacent the large work surface but hidden from view on the other side of the station (i.e., hidden from the side from which a patient would typically approach the station).

0009Today, while there are still nurses that are assigned to different tasks within medical facilities, the lines between the duties performed by nurses of different types are not as bright as they once were. For instance, in the case of a patient attending nurse, often the nurse will record care information using an electronic palm type computing device and will transfer the recorded information corresponding to several patients (e.g., the patients associated with one round made by the nurse) to a persistent patient database linked to a facility computer network for permanent storage. In these cases, data transfer is usually performed at a nurse station where the nurse has the ability to review and modify the recorded data via a relatively large display screen (e.g., a desk top computer display as opposed to a smaller palm type display) prior to final storage in the persistent database.

0010As another instance, patient attending nurses in many facilities now also use computers based at nurse stations for other purposes such as obtaining detailed information about patients, additional information about drugs and/or treatments, checking or modifying schedules, entering narrative information concerning patients, etc.

0011While the tasks performed by different types of nurses have changed, unfortunately, nurse station configurations for supporting the different tasks have not changed very much. To this end, when a patient attending nurse has to access a computer to access information or enter information, in order to access the computer, the nurse has to physically enter the workstation structure that separates the station space from the surrounding common or “public” area. While movement into the surrounding station structure may not seem too burdensome at first blush, in reality, a patient attending nurse may have to access a computer at the station twenty or more times during an eight hour shift and in some cases for only a very short period (e.g., 20 seconds), and movement into and out of the station space can be a nuisance.

0012One solution is to open up the station space so that the large sitting height work surface can be approached from lateral sides in addition to along a front edge. In this case, a patient attending nurse can move into a position adjacent the sitting height work surface to access a computer without having to move through a circuitous path through an entry space into the station surrounding structure.

0013While existing “open” nurse stations are advantageous in some applications, such stations still have several shortcomings. First, while the sitting height work surface is approachable from multiple sides by a nurse, the surface is also approachable from the same sides by any patient or facility visitor in the general area and all of the clutter associated with computer equipment located under the work surface is observable.

0014Second, while an open nurse station allows a generally ambulatory nurse to move into a seated position adjacent a display and computer input devices, even the action of assuming a seated position is a nuisance in cases where a nurse has to access a computer for multiple short durations (e.g., 20 seconds) during a typical shift. Here, the simple task of assuming a seated position as opposed to maintaining a standing position during short computer access periods is time consuming and burdensome.

0015Third, where an ambulatory nurse requires a work surface for a short period, the small standing height surfaces provided by known nurse stations are typically too small for a nurse's needs. This is particularly true in cases where a nurse still records services via paper mounted to clip boards where, in many cases, the clipboards themselves are larger than a depth dimension of the standing height surface or where a nurse uses a laptop computer and attempts to support the laptop on top of the work surface.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0016It has been recognized that a dual height workstation can be configured that includes standing and sitting height work surfaces where each of the surfaces has a depth dimension that is suitable for supporting data entry type computing devices including displays, keyboards, a mouse, etc., and where a housing resides below the work surfaces that forms a cavity in which computers, routers and other electronic components can be stored in a hidden fashion. This configuration is particularly advantageous as all computing devices except for data entry and output devices can be hidden from view and therefore a station can be constructed wherein the station has an uncluttered and aesthetically pleasing appearance regardless of the vantage points of persons viewing the station. In at least some cases the station is generally open in that there is no structure that restricts access to the sitting height surface from the sides.

0017It has also been recognized that, in at least some applications, it is advantageous to provide display screens for data entry and access while using the standing height work surface so that persons can use computer interface devices in either standing or sitting positions, depending on the user's current needs. In at least some applications the display screens are flat panel monitors so that output can be provided without requiring a large amount of space on the work surface. In some embodiments the work surfaces are supported by two vertical, rigid and elongated support legs where the standing height surface is substantially the same height as top ends of the legs and where the monitor support arms are mounted to the top ends of, and are supported by, the legs. This embodiment is particularly advantageous as the leg structure serves a dual purpose of supporting the work surfaces and the display arm so that additional mounting structure for a support arm is not required or is substantially minimized. In at least some cases two monitor arms are mounted to the top end of at least one of the legs where one monitor is arranged to be used on one side of the station and the other monitor is to be used on the other side of the station.

0018Where the station is also used as a reception structure, displays provided above the standing height work surface can be moved via articulating arms to locations generally out of the way so that a patient/visitor being “received” can communicate with a nurse located at the sitting height work surface. In other cases, one or more of the displays may be moved to locations suitable for presenting information to arriving patients/visitors and may be used to presenting greeting or check in information.

0019In at least some embodiments the work surface forming members have curved shapes that, in effect, define different work surface areas that are intended for different types of activities. For instance, in at least some embodiments, each of the work surface forming members includes a curved front edge where the curved edge has first and second ends, is convex near both ends and is concave near a center portion between the two convex end portions. In this case, each convex portion provides an area that is relatively deep and that is suitable for supporting data entry and display components and each concave portion is relatively shallow. Thus, where a member includes two convex portions, the member can form two separate workstation spaces that are spatially separated by a concave portion therebetween.

0020Where the work surface forming members have the concave portions generally aligned, the concave portions together form a space which is suitable for reception purposes. In this regard, when a nurse is receiving a patient/visitor, communication is enhanced when the space between a nurse and the patient/visitor is reduced. During reception activities, a nurse can assume a position within the concave portion of the sitting height work surface and the patient/visitor can likewise assume a position within the concave portion of the standing height work surface and the overall distance between the nurse and patient/visitor can be reduced appreciably. Thus, the convex portions can provide suitable and relatively deep workstation spaces while the concave portions provide suitable and relatively narrow reception areas.

0021In at least some embodiments the station housing below the work surface forming tops includes first and second lateral side walls that form a housing cavity space therebetween and front and rear covers that are used to close the front and rear areas of the cavity between the side walls. In some embodiments the covers below the work surface forming members are spaced apart from the supporting legs so that a relatively wide portion of the cavity is formed therebetween. In some embodiments a top rear cover extends from the undersurface of the standing height work surface to a height substantially at the height of the top surface of the sitting height work surface. In some cases, the top rear cover is located within a space defined by the supporting legs and in fact, in some cases, portions of the supporting legs stand “proud” of the top rear cover so that the legs and external surface of the cover form a recessed cavity. In some cases a rear edge of the standing height work surface forming member extends past the external surface of the top rear cover to further define the cavity. In some cases the external surface of the top rear cover includes slat wall structure so that monitor arms and other accessories can be secured to, and supported by, that surface as well known in the office furniture art.

0022In at least some embodiments one or more of the covers are supported in a fashion so that the covers are easily moved from closed positions wherein the housing cavity is enclosed to an open position wherein a user can gain ready access to the cavity for installing, maintaining and/or replacing electronic components and/or power and data cables. In some embodiments one or more covers are mounted to hinges proximate bottom edges so that the covers can be easily moved into open positions.

0023Some embodiments includes a work surface arrangement comprising at least a first support member extending upward from a base end when the base end is received on a support surface, a first work surface forming member supported by the first support member at a first vertical height and extending to a first side from the first support member, a second work surface forming member supported by the first support member at a second vertical height and extending to a second side opposite the first side of the first support member where the second vertical height is different than the first vertical height, a housing forming a housing cavity, the housing including (i) a front cover extending below the first work surface forming member, (ii) a substantially vertical upper back cover extending downward from the first work surface forming member substantially to the second vertical height proximate the second work surface forming member and spaced from the front cover wherein the upper back cover and the front cover bound an upper housing cavity width and (iii) a lower back cover extending below the second work surface forming member and spaced from the front cover wherein the lower back cover and the front cover bound a lower housing cavity width that is larger than the upper housing cavity width.

0024In some cases the support member includes at least first and second substantially vertical and spaced apart leg members. In some cases the first and second leg members include first and second parallel surfaces that are within first and second leg planes and wherein the front and upper back and lower back covers are located within a space between the first and second leg planes. In some cases the first and second leg members together define a vertical arrangement plane and wherein the lower back cover and the front cover are substantially the same distance from the vertical arrangement plane. In some cases at least one of the second work surface forming member and the first work surface forming member forms first and second openings and wherein the first and second leg members pass at least in part through the first and second openings, respectively.

0025In some cases the at least one of the first and second work surface forming members that forms the first and second openings includes a rear edge proximate the first and second leg members and wherein the first and second openings include first and second notches in the rear edge through which portions of the first and second leg members pass. In some cases the at least one of the first and second work surfaces forming members is the first work surface forming member. In some cases the second work surface forming member forms an opening and wherein the first and second leg members pass at least in part through the opening formed by the second work surface forming member.

0026In some cases each of the first and second work surface forming members includes a rear edge proximate the first and second leg members and wherein the first and second openings include first and second notches in the rear edge of the first work surface forming member and the opening formed by the second work surface forming member includes a notch formed in the rear edge of the second work surface forming member through which portions of the first and second leg members pass. In some cases a portion of the first work surface forming member proximate the rear edge of the first work surface forming member vertically overlaps a portion of the second work surface forming member proximate the rear edge of the second work surface forming member. In some cases top ends of the first and second leg members are substantially flush with a top surface of the second work surface forming member.

0027In some cases each of the first and second work surface forming members includes a rear edge proximate the support member and wherein a portion of the first work surface forming member proximate the rear edge of the first work surface forming member vertically overlaps a portion of the second work surface forming member proximate the rear edge of the second work surface forming member. In some cases the front cover is hingedly supported by the support member to allow movement between a substantially vertical closed position wherein the front cover restricts access to the housing cavity and an open position wherein the front cover is positioned to enable access to the cavity. In some cases the upper back cover includes a slat wall portion that faces a top surface of the second work surface forming member. In some cases the arrangement further includes a monitor support assembly mounted at a top end of at least one of the first and second leg members. In some cases the arrangement further includes first and second support assemblies mounted at the top end of at least one of the first and second leg members and flat panel monitors supported by each of the first and second support assemblies. In some cases the first and second leg members each have oppositely facing front and back surfaces, the front surfaces facing in the same direction and lying within a front surface plane and the back surfaces facing in the same direction and lying within a back surface plane, the front and back surface planes defining a support structure volume therebetween. In some cases the upper back cover is positioned within the support structure volume so that a portion of the support structure volume is exposed between the upper back cover and the back surface plane.

0028In some embodiments the second work surface forming member includes a rear edge proximate the first and second leg members and wherein the rear edge of the second work surface forming member forms a gap with a facing surface of the upper back cover where the gap leads into the housing cavity. In some cases the front cover, upper back cover and lower back cover are substantially parallel. In some embodiments the upper housing cavity width is between two inches and ten inches and wherein the lower cavity width is between five inches and twenty-four inches. In some cases at least one of the first and second work surface forming members has a rear edge proximate the support member and a curved front edge wherein the curved front edge includes at least first and second convex portions and at least one concave portion between the first and second convex portions where a depth dimension of each of the convex portions is greater than a depth dimension of the concave portion.

0029In some embodiments each of the first and second work surface forming members has a rear edge proximate the support member and a curved front edge wherein the curved front edge includes at least first and second convex portions and at least one concave portion between the first and second convex portions where a depth dimension of each of the convex portions is greater than a depth dimension of the concave portion and wherein the concave portions of the first and second work surface forming members are aligned.

0030Other embodiments include a workstation comprising first and second vertical and spaced apart leg members wherein the first and second leg members each have oppositely facing front and back surfaces, the front surfaces facing in a first direction and lying within a front surface plane and the back surfaces facing in a second direction and lying within a back surface plane, the front and back surface planes defining a support structure volume therebetween, a first work surface forming member supported by and extending from the leg members at a first vertical height and in the first direction, a second work surface forming member supported by and extending from the leg members at a second vertical height and in the second direction, a front cover extending downward from an undersurface of the first work surface forming member, an upper back cover extending downward from the first work surface forming member substantially to the second vertical height proximate the second work surface forming member and a lower back cover extending downward from an undersurface of the second work surface forming member, wherein, the front cover and lower back cover are spaced on opposite sides of the support structure volume and the upper back cover is positioned within the support structure volume and extends between the first and second leg members.

0031In some embodiments the upper back cover is spaced from and substantially parallel to the back surface plane. In some cases the upper back cover extends from the undersurface of the first work surface forming member. In some embodiments the second work surface forming member includes a rear edge proximate the first and second leg members and wherein at least a portion of the rear edge of the second work surface forming member forms a gap with an adjacent surface of the upper back cover.

0032Other embodiments include a work surface arrangement comprising at least a first support member extending upward from a base end when the base end is received on a support surface, a first work surface forming member supported by the first support member at a first vertical height and extending to a first side from the first support member and a second work surface forming member supported by the first support member at a second vertical height and extending to a second side opposite the first side of the first support member where the second vertical height is different than the first vertical height, wherein each of the first and second work surface forming members has a rear edge proximate the support member and a curved front edge wherein the curved front edge includes at least first and second convex portions and at least one concave portion between the first and second convex portions where a depth dimension of each of the convex portions is greater than a depth dimension of the concave portion and wherein the concave portions of the first and second work surface forming members are aligned.

0033Still other embodiments include a work surface arrangement comprising at least a first support member extending upward from a base end when the base end is received on a support surface, the first support member having a top end, a work surface forming member supported by the first support member at a vertical height and extending to a first side from the first support member and a monitor support assembly mounted to the top end of the support member for supporting a flat panel monitor above a top surface of the work surface forming member.

0034In some embodiments the first support member forms an opening at the top end, the arrangement further including an insert that is received in the opening at the top end of the first support member, the insert forming at least one socket for receiving an end of the monitor support assembly. In some cases the insert forms at least two sockets, each socket for receiving and retaining a separate one of the monitor support assemblies. In some cases the top end of the first support member is substantially flush with a top surface of the work surface forming member. In some embodiments the first work surface forming member forms an opening and wherein the top end of the first support member extends through the opening formed by the work surface.

0035To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the invention, then, comprises the features hereinafter fully described. The following description and the annexed drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative aspects of the invention. However, these aspects are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the invention can be employed. Other aspects, advantages and novel features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

0036<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a perspective view of an exemplary dual-height workstation configuration consistent with at least some aspects of the present invention;

0037<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a rear plan view of the configuration shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;

0038<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a front plan view of the configuration shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;

0039<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a side plan view of the configuration shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;

0040<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a top plan view of the configuration shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;

0041<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is similar to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, albeit illustrating the workstation configuration including front and rear covers shown in phantom in open positions;

0042<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> is similar to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, albeit where a front cover is shown in an open position;

0043<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a perspective view of a wire management subassembly that forms part of the configuration shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;

0044<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is a perspective view of a side wall member that forms a portion of the configuration shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;

0045<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a schematic view illustrating cover and hinge brackets that form part of the station shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;

0046<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is a perspective view of a configuration similar to the configuration shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, albeit where two flat panel display arm assemblies are attached to an upper rear cover of the configuration;

0047<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is similar to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>, albeit where the relative heights of the top members are different and where four monitor arm subassemblies are mounted to the top ends of support legs, two arm assemblies per each support leg; and

0048<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> is a perspective view of a support arm insert spaced from the receiving top end of one of the leg members shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>;

0049<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is an enlarged view showing two arm assemblies mounted at the top end of a support leg; and

0050<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> is a perspective view similar to the view of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>, albeit where a top work surface forming member has a rectilinear shape and only a single monitor support subassembly is mounted to the top of each of the legs.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

0051Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals correspond to similar elements throughout the several views, the present invention will be described in the context of an exemplary workstation <b>110</b> including a support structure/member <b>112</b> that supports a first or upper work surface forming member or upper member <b>114</b>, a second or lower work surface forming member or lower member <b>116</b>, and a workstation housing <b>118</b>. Referring specifically to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 through 4</figref>, support structure <b>112</b> generally comprises two leg members or legs <b>128</b>, two bases <b>122</b> and a footrest assembly <b>126</b>. Each base <b>122</b> is a flat rigid plate like member that engages a support surface or floor on which the workstation <b>110</b> is positioned. Although not illustrated, each base or foot member <b>122</b> may be bolted or otherwise attached to the supporting floor structure so that leg members <b>128</b> secured thereto are supported to extended upright there from.

0052Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 through 5</figref> and specifically to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, the vertically extending spaced-apart legs <b>128</b> have generally rectangular cross sectional shapes with slightly arcuate inner surfaces <b>530</b> and outer surfaces <b>532</b>. Each leg <b>128</b> is secured (e.g., welded, bolted to, etc.) to a separate one of the base members <b>122</b> to extend vertically upward therefrom upon installation for use. The inner surfaces <b>530</b> of legs <b>128</b> each defines a leg plane <b>534</b> between which housing <b>118</b> is completely disposed. The legs <b>128</b> also include front surfaces <b>536</b> and back surfaces <b>538</b> that connect the inner and outer surfaces <b>530</b> and <b>532</b>. The front surfaces <b>536</b> face a first or front direction and define a front surface plane <b>540</b>. Similarly, the back surfaces <b>538</b> face a second or back direction and define a back surface plane <b>542</b>. The front surface plane <b>540</b> and the back surface plane <b>542</b> define a support structure volume <b>544</b> there between, which is described in further detail below. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, the legs <b>128</b> also define a vertical arrangement plane <b>446</b> that bisects each of the legs <b>128</b>. The vertical arrangement plane <b>446</b> is also described in further detail below. The legs <b>128</b> have a vertical length dimension such that top ends of the legs <b>128</b> are at a height corresponding to a work surface height that is comfortable for a standing work surface user. To this end, the legs <b>128</b> have a length dimension H<b>1</b> which result in the top ends thereof being at a height of between thirty eight and forty-five inches where dimension H<b>1</b> is typically around forty-two inches. In other embodiments height H<b>1</b> may be selected to be generally a bar height suitable for use by a person sitting on a stool.

0053Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 4</figref>, support brackets <b>124</b> are mounted to legs <b>128</b> just above bases <b>122</b> and support footrail <b>126</b> at between eight and twelve inches high where rail <b>126</b> extends in the front or first direction from legs <b>128</b>. Individuals may rest their feet on footrail <b>126</b> while standing to the first side of station <b>110</b> while using upper work surface <b>114</b>.

0054Referring again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 through 5</figref>, the first work surface forming member <b>114</b> is a thin (e.g., ½ to 1½ inch thick), rigid and flat member that includes parallel top and bottom surfaces <b>156</b>U and <b>264</b>U, respectively, and front and rear edges, <b>162</b>U and <b>158</b>U, respectively. Rear edge <b>158</b>U is generally a straight edge and forms first and second notches <b>160</b>U sized to snuggly receive portions of leg members <b>128</b> adjacent front surfaces <b>536</b>. Each notch <b>160</b>U has a depth dimension such that between one-half and approximately two-thirds of each leg <b>128</b> adjacent front surface <b>536</b> is receivable within the notch <b>160</b>U. Front edge <b>162</b>U (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>) curves from one end of rear edge <b>158</b>U to the other and the curve forms half a figure eight shape with convex edge portions near the curve ends and a concave edge portion between the two convex edge portions.

0055The convex portions of member <b>114</b> are dimensioned so that each portion is suitable as a workstation and, to that end, will often have a depth dimension D<b>1</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 5</figref>) that is between twenty and twenty-four inches and, is typically around twenty-two inches. Dimension D<b>1</b> should be selected so that member <b>114</b> can support input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse as well as paper charts, materials, etc., to the side thereof and so that a flat panel display can be placed at a comfortable distance from a keyboard user and still reside generally above the surface formed by member <b>114</b> or at a location proximate the rear edge <b>158</b>U thereof. The radius of curvature R<b>1</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>) of the concave portion of the curved front edge should be selected so as to accommodate a person standing thereat. For instance, in at least some embodiments the radius of curvature R<b>1</b> should be approximately thirty to thirty-five inches.

0056In at least some embodiments notches <b>160</b>U may a (?) slightly larger than the portions of legs <b>128</b> received therein so that a gap (see <b>1210</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>) is formed between the edge that forms the notch and the facing surface of the received leg <b>128</b>. The gap <b>1210</b> may be used to pass cables from a monitor, keyboard or other cabled devices that reside on or above member <b>114</b> to a space therebelow.

0057Referring again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 through 5</figref>, second work surface forming member <b>116</b> is constructed in a similar fashion to member <b>114</b>. To this end, member <b>116</b> is a thin, rigid and flat member including parallel top and bottom surfaces <b>156</b>L and <b>264</b>L, respectively and has front and rear edges <b>162</b>L and <b>158</b>L, respectively. Front edge <b>162</b>L has a curved shape similar to the curved shape <b>162</b>U of top member <b>114</b>. Rear edges <b>158</b>L is generally a straight edge and forms a single long notch <b>160</b>L that extends a distance equal to the dimension between the oppositely facing outer surfaces <b>532</b> of legs <b>128</b> so that portions of both legs <b>128</b> proximate rear surfaces <b>538</b> can be simultaneously received in the notch <b>160</b>L. Notch <b>160</b>L has a depth dimension such that between one-half and approximately two-thirds of each leg <b>128</b> adjacent rear surface <b>538</b> is receivable within the notch <b>160</b>L.

0058Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, upper and lower gussets or brackets <b>448</b>U and <b>448</b>L are provided for each leg <b>128</b> (i.e., there are a pair of brackets associated with each leg, one pair shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>). Each gusset has a similar construction and each operates in a similar fashion and therefore only gusset <b>448</b>U shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is described here in detail. Gusset <b>448</b>U is a generally flat and rigid triangular member that forms a right angle. Although not shown, the two edges of gusset <b>448</b>U adjacent the right angle may include flanges perpendicular to the main portion of the gusset for mounting purposes. As shown, gussets <b>448</b>U are securely attached to legs <b>128</b> near top ends thereof to extend to the front or first side generally above foot rest <b>126</b>. Gusset <b>448</b>U may be secured to leg <b>128</b> via bolts, screws, welding, or any other known mechanical or other structure or method. Lower gussets <b>448</b>L are securely attached to rear surfaces <b>538</b> of legs <b>128</b> approximately midway along the lengths thereof to support member <b>116</b> at a typical work surface height (e.g., between twenty-seven and thirty-two and typically at approximately thirty inches) for a seated surface user.

0059Referring again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 through 5</figref>, to install upper work surface forming member <b>114</b>, rear edge <b>158</b>U is positioned adjacent front surfaces <b>536</b> of leg <b>128</b> with notches <b>160</b>U aligned with legs <b>128</b> and with bottom surface <b>264</b>U resting on top edges of gussets <b>448</b>U. Member <b>114</b> is slid back toward legs <b>128</b> until portions of legs <b>128</b> are received to a desired degree within notches <b>160</b>U and then screws or other fasteners are used to secure member <b>114</b> to the top edges of gussets <b>448</b>U. Once installed, top surface <b>156</b>U of member <b>114</b>, in at least some embodiments, is flush with the top ends of legs <b>128</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 4</figref>).

0060To install lower work surface forming member <b>116</b>, rear edge <b>158</b>L is positioned adjacent rear leg surfaces <b>538</b> with notch <b>160</b>L aligned with legs <b>128</b> and with bottom surface <b>264</b>U resting on top edges of gussets <b>448</b>L. Member <b>116</b> is slid toward legs <b>128</b> until the legs are received within notch <b>160</b>L to a desired extent. Next, member <b>116</b> is secured to gussets <b>448</b>L. When installed, the convex portions of members <b>114</b> and <b>116</b> are generally aligned as illustrated best in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>.

0061Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1</figref>, <b>6</b> and <b>7</b>, housing <b>118</b> includes a front cover <b>174</b>, an upper back cover <b>176</b>, a lower back cover <b>178</b>, and first and second side walls collectively identified by numeral <b>180</b>. Front cover <b>174</b> is a rigid, flat rectilinear member having internal and external surfaces. Cover <b>174</b> has a width dimension (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>) that is substantially identical to the distance between the facing surfaces <b>530</b> of legs <b>128</b> and has a height dimension that is less than the height of the leg members <b>128</b> so that when cover <b>174</b> is installed below upper member <b>114</b> to extend down therefrom (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 4</figref>), a bottom edge thereof resides above and spaced from foot rest <b>126</b>.

0062Lower back cover <b>178</b> is a rigid, flat rectilinear member having internal and external surfaces and has a width dimension similar to the width dimension of front cover <b>174</b> and a height dimension approximately half the height dimension of front cover <b>174</b> so that when installed below lower member <b>116</b> to extend down therefrom, a bottom edge thereof is at essentially the same height as the bottom edge of front cover <b>174</b>.

0063Upper back cover <b>176</b> is a rigid, substantially flat rectilinear member having internal and external surfaces. In at least some embodiments the external surface of upper back cover <b>176</b> forms slats or grooves for receiving mechanical fasteners for fastening accessories such as light support arms, flat panel monitor arms, pencil holders, shelf members, etc. An exemplary slat forming cover structure in common use today is generally referred to as slat wall. Cover <b>176</b> has a width dimension equal to the distance between the facing surfaces of legs <b>128</b> and a height dimension that is, in at least some embodiments, less than the vertical distance between the bottom surface <b>264</b>U of upper member <b>114</b> and the top surface <b>156</b>L of lower member <b>116</b>, so that when cover <b>176</b> is installed and extends down from the bottom surface of member <b>114</b> as illustrated, a bottom edge thereof stops short of the vertical height of the top surface <b>156</b>L of member <b>166</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>).

0064Referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>, a rigid and elongated wire management tray member <b>120</b> is provided in at least some embodiments. As the label implies, tray member <b>120</b> is provided to support power and/or data receptacles and also to control and restrict power and data cables. To this end, referring also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>, tray member <b>120</b> is formed of bent sheet metal and includes two elongated plate like members <b>123</b> and <b>125</b> as well as first and second end tabs <b>127</b> and <b>129</b>. Each of members <b>123</b> and <b>125</b> is a rigid flat and elongated rectangular member and members <b>123</b> and <b>125</b> are connected along one long edge. Member <b>123</b> forms four receptacle receiving openings <b>131</b> that are generally equispaced along the length of member <b>123</b>. Tabs <b>127</b> and <b>129</b> extend from end edges of member <b>123</b> in a direction opposite the direction in which member <b>125</b> extends. Midway along the long edge of member <b>125</b> opposite the edge to which member <b>123</b> is attached, member <b>125</b> forms a notch <b>133</b> for retaining/restricting cables that pass into the trough formed by tray member <b>120</b>. Mounting holes <b>135</b> are provided in tabs <b>127</b> and <b>129</b> for mounting tray member <b>120</b> between legs <b>128</b>. Member <b>120</b> has a length dimension substantially equal to the width dimension of upper back cover <b>176</b>.

0065Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1</figref>, <b>2</b> and <b>9</b>, each side wall <b>180</b> is a rigid flat wall member that has internal and external surfaces, top and bottom parallel edges <b>181</b> and <b>183</b>, respectively, first and second parallel lateral edges <b>185</b> and <b>187</b>, respectively, an intermediate horizontal edge <b>189</b> and an intermediate vertical edge <b>191</b>. The dimension between top and bottom edges <b>181</b> and <b>183</b> is the same as the height dimension of front cover <b>174</b>. A width dimension W<b>1</b> between lateral edges <b>185</b> and <b>187</b> defines the width of the space formed by housing <b>118</b>. In the illustrated embodiment with width of wall <b>180</b> is selected so that there will be a substantial overhang of each work surface forming member <b>114</b> and <b>116</b> after station <b>110</b> is assembled. For instance, the width of wall <b>180</b> may be approximately two-thirds of a depth dimension associated with each member <b>114</b> and <b>116</b> where the depth dimension D (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) is the largest dimension between the front and rear edges of one of the members <b>114</b> and <b>116</b>. In this case, because only about one-half of wall <b>180</b> is located under each member <b>114</b> and <b>116</b> after installation, approximately two-thirds of each work surface forming member <b>114</b> and <b>116</b> will overhang and extend part the housing <b>118</b> therebelow.

0066Intermediate horizontal edge <b>189</b> and vertical edge <b>191</b> are parallel to the top edge <b>181</b> and lateral edge <b>187</b>, respectively, and clip off approximately one-quarter of the area defined by bottom edge <b>183</b> and lateral edge <b>185</b>. In the illustrated embodiment, a second width dimension W<b>2</b> between lateral edge <b>185</b> and intermediate edge <b>191</b> is approximately one-half dimension W<b>1</b>. A height dimension between bottom edge <b>183</b> and intermediate edge <b>189</b> is substantially equal to the height dimension of bottom rear cover <b>178</b>. Each side wall <b>180</b> forms mounting holes collectively labeled <b>193</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>.

0067Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 1 and 2</figref>, to install the upper back cover <b>176</b> and tray member <b>120</b>, cover <b>176</b> is positioned between leg members <b>128</b> so that the slat wall surface thereof generally faces in the direction of lower work surface forming member <b>116</b> and so that the slat wall surface is recessed back from the rear surfaces <b>538</b> (see also <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>) of legs <b>128</b> with a top edge of cover <b>176</b> abutting the underside of upper work surface forming member <b>114</b>. Bolts or other mechanical fasteners are used to secure cover <b>176</b> in place.

0068Next, tray member <b>120</b> is positioned adjacent the lower edge of cover <b>176</b> with member <b>123</b> parallel to and generally coplanar with the front slat wall surface of cover <b>176</b> and with member <b>125</b> extending generally in the direction of surface forming member <b>116</b>. Here, the dimensions of cover <b>176</b> and member <b>123</b> of tray member <b>120</b> should be such that upon installation, member <b>125</b> is in a vertical plane which is below (e.g., one to two inches) the top surface of member <b>116</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) so that tray member <b>120</b> forms a sunken tray channel generally at <b>166</b>. In this case, excess lengths of power/data cables can be stored in the tray channel to minimize clutter on the top surface of member <b>116</b>. Power and data receptacles <b>137</b> can be mounted in openings <b>131</b> in any manner known in the art.

0069To install side walls <b>180</b>, each wall is positioned adjacent an interior surface <b>530</b> of a separate one of legs <b>128</b> with the top edge <b>181</b> and intermediate edge <b>189</b> abutting the bottom surface <b>264</b>U and <b>264</b>L of work surface forming members <b>114</b> and <b>116</b>, respectively. Screws or other mechanical fasteners are used to secure side walls <b>180</b> to legs <b>128</b> in the positions illustrated in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>.

0070Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6</figref>, <b>7</b> and <b>10</b>, two cover mounting bars <b>686</b> and <b>696</b> are shown mounted between side walls <b>180</b>. As illustrated, bar <b>686</b> is securely attached to the internal surface of each side wall <b>180</b> proximate the lower corner formed by bottom edge <b>183</b> and the long lateral edge <b>185</b>. Bar <b>686</b> is horizontally oriented and can be attached to walls <b>180</b> in any manner (e.g., brackets, etc., not shown). Bar <b>696</b> is securely attached to the internal surface of each side wall <b>180</b> proximate the lower corner formed by bottom edge <b>183</b> and the short lateral edge <b>187</b> and is horizontally oriented.

0071Referring still to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> and also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>, front cover <b>174</b> has two hinge brackets <b>751</b> mounted to an internal surface near the bottom edge which cooperate with bar <b>686</b> to form a hinge. To this end, each bracket <b>751</b> forms a C-shaped downwardly facing channel <b>753</b> that receives bar <b>686</b> so that the brackets <b>751</b> and cover <b>174</b> can rotate or pivot about a central axis formed by bar <b>686</b>. Thus, after installation, cover <b>174</b> can be moved between a closed position shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> and an open position shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> (see phantom) and another open position shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>. Because each bracket <b>751</b> is open downward, cover <b>174</b> can be easily removed from bar <b>686</b> by simply lifting upward so that brackets <b>751</b> disengage bar <b>686</b>. Once completely removed from the bar <b>686</b>, the cover <b>174</b> can be placed aside to allow a station user unfettered access to the components within the housing cavity for installation, maintenance and repair purposes.

0072To maintain cover <b>174</b> in the closed and generally vertical position as in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, a closure maintaining subassembly may be provided. In <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>, exemplary closure maintaining subassemblies include magnetic latching mechanisms <b>788</b>/<b>790</b>. Each latching mechanism includes a magnet <b>790</b> mounted to a side wall <b>180</b> and a metal plate <b>788</b> mounted to the internal surface of cover <b>174</b> where the plate and magnet are positioned such that when cover <b>174</b> is swung into the closed position, the plate <b>788</b> is adjacent the associated magnet <b>790</b> and magnetically latches thereto. The closing magnetic force can be overcome by simply pulling on the lateral edge(s) of cover <b>174</b> thereby opening the cover to access the space formed by housing <b>118</b>. Other mechanical latching mechanisms are contemplated wherein one part on cover <b>174</b> mates with another part mounted to side walls <b>180</b> or other housing structure when cover <b>174</b> is in the closed position. Although not shown, a locking mechanism may be provided in some applications to maintain cover <b>174</b> in the closed position unless affirmatively unlocked. Here, suitable mechanical locking mechanisms are well known in the art.

0073As seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6 and 10</figref>, in the illustrated embodiment, rear cover <b>178</b> is mounted to bar <b>696</b> in a fashion similar to that described above with respect to cover <b>174</b>. In at least some embodiments one of the covers <b>174</b> or <b>178</b> may be mounted to be removed or opened while the other cover is mounted in a more permanent fashion. Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, in at least some embodiments covers <b>174</b> and <b>178</b> are substantially equidistant from plane <b>540</b> when closed.

0074As seen in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, an upper cavity width W<b>2</b> is less than a lower housing cavity width W<b>3</b>. This configuration affords sufficient leg room for a nurse using the seated height work surface <b>116</b> while affording a relatively deep work surface <b>116</b> dimension. Here, a user's feet can be accommodated under the housing <b>118</b> if additional footroom is needed and the width W<b>3</b> of housing <b>118</b> ensures that the user's feet remain hidden from view on the opposite side of station <b>110</b>.

0075Referring again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>, in at least some embodiments, additional power/data receptacles may be mounted inside housing cavity <b>784</b>. In addition, other shelf or bracket structures <b>721</b> may be mounted in cavity <b>784</b> for supporting computers, networking equipment, etc.

0076Referring again to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, it is contemplated that in some embodiments a flexible tether cord <b>691</b> (shown in phantom) or the like may be provided to prevent cover <b>174</b> (or cover <b>178</b>) from inadvertently crashing into a floor structure which could damage the covers or other items in the vicinity of station <b>110</b>. In this regard, cord <b>691</b> could be secured at opposite ends to the interior surface of cover <b>174</b> and to some structure (e.g., an internal surface of one of the side walls <b>180</b>) inside the housing cavity <b>784</b>. When associated cover <b>174</b> is in the closed position, cord <b>691</b> would simply fold into cavity <b>784</b> and when cover <b>174</b> is rotated to the open position, cord <b>691</b> would become taut and maintain cover <b>174</b> in an angled orientation.

0077Workstation <b>110</b> may be modified from the above description without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, in some embodiments, referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>, a station <b>110</b><i>a </i>may include flat panel monitor assemblies <b>1102</b> and <b>1108</b> mounted to the slat wall front surface of top rear cover <b>176</b>. Each of assemblies <b>1102</b> and <b>1008</b> is similarly constructed and therefore, in the interest of simplifying this explanation, only assembly <b>1102</b> is described in any detail. Assembly <b>1102</b> includes a monitor support arm assembly <b>1104</b> and a flat panel display screen <b>1106</b>. Arm <b>1102</b> may take any of several different forms known in the art. One particularly useful arm structure is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/445,804 which is titled “Support Arm Assembly” and which was filed on Jun. 2, 2006 and which is incorporated herein by reference. In particular, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref> of the above referenced patent application teaches a system for mounting an articulating monitor arm to a slat wall surface. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> of the above referenced application teaches an arm assembly that supports a display for movement up, down, forward and backward, left and right and for forward and rearward tilting. In some cases the arm of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> may be combined with the mounting structure of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 27</figref> to provide a display <b>1106</b> mounted to the slat wall surface of cover <b>176</b> for use by a nurse adjacent lower member <b>116</b>.

0078As another example, referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 12 and 14</figref>, a station <b>110</b><i>b </i>may include display assemblies <b>1202</b>, <b>1204</b>, <b>1206</b> and <b>1208</b> mounted at the top ends of legs <b>128</b>. In this case, referring also to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>, a fitting <b>1215</b> is provided that can be inserted into a top end of leg <b>128</b> where the fitting <b>1215</b> forms two sockets collectively labeled <b>1217</b> (see also <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>). Each socket is dimensioned to receive a mounting post end (see <b>116</b> in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> of the referenced application) of one of the arm assemblies. In the illustrated embodiment fitting <b>1215</b> includes an upper lip <b>1220</b> and several ribs <b>1222</b> that extend downward there from where the lip limits the extent to which the fitting will move into the open end of a leg and the ribs <b>1222</b> are designed to deform somewhat when the fitting <b>1215</b> is press fit into the open top end of a leg <b>128</b>. Thus, the fitting <b>1215</b> jams into the opening so that no special tools are required to install the fitting <b>1215</b>. Once installed, the arm assemblies <b>1214</b> extend upward from fitting <b>1215</b> and each supports a separate flat panel display for articulated motion above the top surfaces of members <b>114</b> and <b>116</b>. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, a first display attached to each post is mounted to be viewable by a nurse proximate member <b>114</b> and a second display attached to each post is mounted to be viewable by a nurse or the like proximate member <b>116</b>.

0079As still one other example, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref> illustrates another station <b>10</b><i>c </i>that includes a rectilinear upper work surface forming member <b>114</b><i>a </i>instead of the half figure-8 design shown in the previous embodiments. In addition, station <b>110</b><i>c </i>includes only one monitor support subassembly mounted to each of the legs <b>128</b>. In this case each monitor may be used on either side of the station.

0080From the above disclosure it should be appreciated that workstation <b>110</b> is appropriate for simultaneous use by multiple individuals. For example, two individuals may use the upper work surface <b>114</b> and two individuals may use the lower work surface <b>116</b> simultaneously. As another example, two individuals may use the lower work surface <b>116</b> simultaneously while interacting with patients/visitors that approach the upper work surface <b>114</b>. Here, to reduce the distance between a nurse and a visitor at station <b>110</b>, both the nurse and visitor may move into the concave portions of the members <b>114</b> and <b>116</b>. As yet another example, two individuals may use the upper work surface <b>114</b> for some tasks (e.g., performing a quick fact check related to a patient to be visited) and the lower work surface <b>116</b> for other tasks (e.g., transferring data form a palm type device to a network and reviewing/altering the information prior to persistent storage).

0081It should also be appreciated that the above described embodiment provides a station configuration where multiple height surfaces have been provided that can be used for different purposes that are encouraged by the station design. In this regard, on one hand the lower work surface forming member <b>116</b> is positioned in a semi-private space where upper cover <b>176</b> as well as the portion of top member <b>114</b> adjacent a rear edge thereof and portions of leg members <b>128</b> together form a recessed alcove. Upper back or rear cover <b>176</b> is positioned within the support structure formed by legs <b>128</b> so that a portion of the cavity/support structure volume <b>544</b> is positioned between the upper rear cover <b>176</b> and the back surface plane <b>540</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 4 and 5</figref>). The slat wall surface of upper cover <b>176</b> is recessed from the rear surface <b>538</b> of leg members <b>128</b> and the rear edge <b>154</b>U of top member <b>114</b> and the surface recession enhances the feeling of privacy. On the other hand, when a station user wants to temporarily and quickly use a work surface, the user has the option to use the relatively less private surface provided by top member <b>114</b>.

0082Moreover, it should be recognized that the configuration illustrated has a particularly aesthetically pleasing symmetrical configuration when viewed from the side (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>) as the cavity forming housing <b>118</b> has equal depth on both sides of the legs <b>128</b> while still providing ample leg room for seated as well as standing station users below members <b>114</b> and <b>116</b>.

0083Several specific embodiments of the present invention have been described above. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers' specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

0084Thus, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the following appended claims.